Elderly-Onset Heart Failure
Heart failure that first manifests in patients over 65 years of age, presenting unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Full Definition
Elderly-onset heart failure refers to heart failure that first develops in patients over 65 years of age, representing a distinct clinical entity with unique characteristics compared to heart failure in younger patients. This condition often presents with atypical symptoms, multiple comorbidities, and different underlying etiologies than heart failure in younger populations. Patients frequently have preserved ejection fraction, multiple cardiovascular risk factors, and age-related cardiac changes that complicate diagnosis and treatment. The management approach must consider polypharmacy issues, altered drug metabolism, cognitive factors, and goals of care that may prioritize symptom relief and quality of life over traditional cardiac metrics.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as a compound adjective; distinguish from heart failure that progresses into old age.
In Context
- "The patient's elderly-onset heart failure required a modified treatment approach given her multiple comorbidities." — Clinical case documentation
- "Elderly-onset heart failure often presents with preserved ejection fraction and requires specialized management strategies." — Medical literature review